A team of archaeologists and scientists has uncovered compelling evidence that baobab trees on Zanzibar’s Unguja Island were planted and preserved by Swahili communities over 1,000 years ago. Using over 8,000 drone images, researchers linked today’s baobab groves to ancient port sites, suggesting the trees weren’t just naturally occurring—they were cultivated for food, water, cloth, rituals, and shelter. The baobab trees helped early settlers adapt to changing climates and political rule, and are still protected by locals today. As global demand for baobab products grows, this study highlights the importance of traditional stewardship and offers new ways to monitor these trees using drone and satellite data.
The Conversation
